Dr. James Siegel VP for Student Services

Biography

Dr. James Siegel brings more than 20 years of higher education leadership experience to Black Hawk College, with a focus on student success, engagement and equity. He has held senior roles at institutions across the country, including Whatcom Community College, Ocean County College, Rockland Community College, Georgian Court University and the University of Arizona.

Siegel is known for driving innovative strategies that improve retention, enrollment and graduation outcomes. His leadership has earned national recognition, including a National Excellence in Retention Award from Noel-Levitz and helped multiple colleges reverse declining enrollment trends.

Before entering higher education, he worked in social services as a crisis counselor and prevention educator. He holds a Ph.D. in higher education administration, a master’s degree in educational psychology from the University of Arizona, and a bachelor’s degree in English from SUNY Binghamton.

He lives in the Quad Cities with his family and three small dogs, and enjoys hiking, piano and the arts.